Evonne Goolagong Cawley backs First Nations tennis and culture at National Indigenous Tennis Carnival

Tennis legend Evonne Goolagong Cawley has crowned the 2025 National Indigenous Tennis Carnival champions in Darwin, capping off a week where culture, connection and competition took centre court for more than 160 young First Nations players from across Australia.

Reflecting on the significance of the event, the former world No.1 and 14-time Grand Slam champion stated "this event is one of the most unique programs that I’ve ever been in. It’s not just about tennis - it’s about education, meeting up with friends and making new friends. I remember last time I was here, a lot of the kids were very shy, very scared… just the same as I was when I first started playing.

“But by the end of it, everybody’s joining in like sisters and brothers and learning a lot about culture. After a while, they all become like family. It was such a pleasure and a real joy to see all those young kids.

“The combination of tennis with culture can only make them stronger. I know that tennis made me more positive, more confident in myself, but then when I learned about culture too… it made me even stronger. The combination is just unreal.”

Goolagong Cawley personally awarded 17-year-old Isaac Elson (NSW) the Evonne Goolagong Cawley Medal of Excellence, praising his well-deserved recognition for leadership, sportsmanship and positive attitude displayed both on and off the court.

Acknowledging his recognition, Elson stated "winning that award is something special - I don't have words to say. It's just an awesome feeling.

“I've worked very hard, and I’m really appreciative of Evonne and Roger and everyone who has helped me along this path and has guided me to the positive side of everything.”

Bringing culture to life, participants were treated to a surprise performance from acclaimed First Nations rapper Barkaa, while Indigenous Outreach Projects kept the energy high with music and dance workshops that had players showcasing their moves and heritage both on and off the court.

Commenting on the success of the week, Tennis NT Chief Executive, Tania Tandora advised "we’ve had an incredible four days here at the National Indigenous Tennis Carnival.

“It’s been so heartwarming to see the participants fully embrace everything the event had to offer, both on and off the court.

“Having Evonne join us once again this year was extremely special, and seeing the joy on the kids’ faces as they connected with her is something we’ll always treasure.

“The level of tennis throughout the carnival has been fantastic, and it’s been just as rewarding to watch everyone engage with the cultural activities and come together for the amazing concert with Barkaa.

“We hope this experience stays with them for years to come and is something they’ll look back on with pride and happiness.”

The 18-and-under boys’ championship finals saw Quincy Kahn (NSW) defeat Isaac Elson (NSW) 1-6 6-4 [10-4], and Lola Grigor (Victoria) defeat Laylah Shawcross (Queensland) 6-1 6-1 in the girls.

In the 14-and-under girls’ competition, Hazel Wright (NSW) defeated Namallarri Mckenzie (South Australia) 6-2 6-0, and Will Brooks-Gay (Victoria) overcame Oakley Baylis (NSW) 6-1 6-2 in the boys.

The team from Queensland claimed the Ash Barty Cup - a team-based award for the overall winning team based on performance in the Hot Shots, Future Stars and Showdown events - while New South Wales took home second position and Victoria third.

Eight participants - one from each state and territory - were also announced as winners of the Deadly Awards, voted on by team supervisors for their sportsmanship, leadership and positive spirit. These recipients will enjoy a money can’t buy experience at a Summer of Tennis event in 2026.

Images: Evonne Goolagong Cawley presents the National Indigenous Tennis Carnival Medal of Excellence to Isaac Elson (top), on court action during the Carnival (midde) and runner-up Namallarri Mckenzie of South Australia competing in the 14-and-under girls’ competition (below). Credit: Fiona Hamilton, Tennis Australia.